1. Have an infinite mindset

Build a business with an infinite mindset rather than a short-term outlook. Businesses with an infinite mindset exchange short-term goals for those of achieving a lasting, positive impact on the world.

In the book The Infinite Game, author Simon Sinek explains that businesses with a finite mindset play to beat the competition, with a “profits at all costs” approach. They’re often focused on the now and haven’t mapped out a long-term vision with strategies to achieve their objectives.

In contrast, businesses with an infinite mindset play the long game, with a focus on the future and remaining relevant for as long as possible. It takes courage to lead with an infinite mindset because success might not show immediately, but if you adopt it as a corporate strategy, you’ll build a stronger, more stable, more innovative, and inspiring company.

2. Partner with other businesses

Strategically partnering with another business can grow your business and take it to new heights. Choose a partner carefully, and it could benefit you both by promoting each other’s objectives.

For example we’ve partnered with various businesses over the years, like Airbnb in 2020, where we trained hosts and others in Airbnb’s industry-leading cleaning protocols, and upskilled SweepStars to provide Airbnb International best practice hospitality level cleaning services.

Carolyne Wanjiku: How I started my biogas business with sh. 100,000

Identify specific challenges your business has, then look who you can combine forces with. There are many forms of partnerships; for instance, one that helps you offer new services and solutions to your existing customers, thereby helping you to gain a competitive advantage, or it could be about financial investorship.

A partnership can also expand your brand reach by giving you the opportunity to reach new markets and audiences, or it could be about providing access to new technical knowledge, ideas, and experience. Imagine the value for a leader of a company in being able to tap into the wisdom and perspective of another company’s successful MD?

3. Keep the energy going

In such a fast-changing world you need to stay innovative and build better products and services for your customers. We’ve been in business for seven years, but we still view ourselves as a start-up in terms of the hype and energy that a start-up has.

We’re constantly evolving and pushing boundaries and having that start-up energy flowing around the company helps to boost innovation. It also keeps your employees enthusiastic about your product or service, which is healthy. When people are excited, they draw customers and potential team members in.

4. Grow your team in the right way

Surround yourself with people that compliment you in terms of skill and personality, but also keep diversity in terms of age, gender, professional experience, and nationality in mind. Focus on creating a work environment that promotes trust and a feeling of safety, that encourages cooperation and teamwork, that gives support to flourish, and allows responsible freedom.

And get people to buy into the fundamental reason that you do what you do. Having buy-in from skilled people on your team who want to be a part of the mission you’re on is invaluable.

5. Foster the right company culture

Having a great company culture is a powerful tool in a company’s success. Business guru Peter Drucker famously said: “Culture eats strategy for breakfast”.

A powerful company culture is a driving force in how you do business and has a big impact on how you develop strategies.

It also creates focus among your staff and engenders a feeling of identity. Early on, we set our company culture to embody set principles. All staff are expected to follow those, and we’ve added adherence to it in our yearly KPAs.

6. Expand your base

Your business may have started out selling to a niche market but at some point, you’ll probably need to grow bigger.

It takes courage to move forward onto the next phase and expand beyond your niche. Growth could come about because clients are asking for more services and products or because you have a strong business and have spotted a need for it in other markets.

Last year we launched SweepSouth in Kenya, which has a growing middle class, a good tech ecosystem, and an established culture around home services. We also broadened our core offering to include outdoor services.

That expansion has resulted in a 25% year-on-year increase in the number of men booking services such as gardeners and handymen for help in the home.

7. Be an agile “Yes” leader

As a business leader, having focus is good, but you also need to be opportunistic and innovative. Stay on the lookout for opportunities in whatever form they may take. Success is due to skill and hard work, but luck plays a part.

Luck isn’t always something that randomly happens, it can be about learning where to find opportunities. By being agile and able to say yes to those opportunities, you’ll allow more luck into your life. Having a flexible approach also allows you to adapt more readily to anything coming your way.

8. Look after people

Having happy staff helps to retain star employees and decrease turnover. Losing employees costs the company money, as hiring, training, and onboarding new employees is a time consuming, expensive process.

But it goes beyond just caring and protecting your teams while they’re at work. We also try to think big and care not just for the SweepStars, but domestic workers across Kenya.

Every year we release the SweepSouth Report on Pay and Working Conditions for Domestic Work in South Africa, and this year we are including Kenya as well.

Its findings go a long way to highlight the stark, precarious living and working conditions of this vulnerable sector of the labour force to the government and the public.

9. Step out of your comfort zone

Great things happen during tough times – it can be the best time for your company, or a division within it, to change direction. When things are comfortable there’s a lot to lose by stepping out of your comfort zone, but when your world is turned upside down, it forces you into taking actions you wouldn’t normally.

10. Develop grit and resilience

An important part of being a successful business owner is to develop resilience so that you have the will to stay in the game through thick and thin. Foster grit within your team so that you can keep one another’s morale up if you encounter tough times or hit unexpected hurdles.

It will go a long way to advance the company through the turbulence and beyond. At the start of the pandemic, our business could barely operate, so our core team had to regroup and replace a sense of deflation with creativity and innovation.

When things go wrong, act early and be prudent. Fundamentally, business owners need to be realistic – employ pessimism in your planning and optimism in your outlook. In tough times, it will be business people who rolled with the punches who will thrive.

Author

10 steps you can take to strengthen your Business first appeared on Bizna Kenya

Evelyn Shuku worked as the operations manager at Hemingways Nairobi, a luxury five star boutique hotel.

Biggest money mistake: Sometime back, I trusted a salesman on an education insurance product that I took for my children. Although I kept making the payments, the funds I gave out were not being remitted. In the end, all the money I thought I had saved for the children went down the drain. I learned to always know where I put my money.

Key to success: The secret is in building routines that ensure you are constantly making solid steps forward. But you have to ruthlessly measure your progress, fix what doesn’t work, revise and adapt, and work hard every day to be better than you were the previous day.

Probably without even noticing it, you will end up on the rich corner, and most importantly, be a lot happier in retrospection.

To scale the heights in the corporate world, you will do well to build a team of employees through coaching and career development. The success of your team will be your success too.

Saving method: Currently, I save by putting money in an investment account and buying land. Previously, though, I would save by putting my money in a bank account. This was not very effective. The earnings I got were not as pleasing as they are in my current method.

Biggest career loss: My biggest loss in my career has been the failure to instill aim and goals thoroughly. Without well-defined goals, your effort, whether professional or otherwise is bound to be fruitless.

This is because your targets will be random, and as a result likely to be in conflict with each other prohibiting your progress. Be specific in what you set your eyes on. Have a measurable goal and set a deadline on it.

Biggest financial milestone: Getting rid of monthly rent by acquiring my own home is my biggest achievement this far.  We made a 15-year plan with my husband that entailed the goals we wanted to achieve and how we would achieve them.

Owning a home was one of the major things I took on. Looking back, I have come to realize that acquiring assets is of paramount importance. Acquire assets today and they will turn into riches tomorrow.

Stop thinking about surviving and worrying about comfort; instead, think about thriving.

If I could go back in time: I would start by creating an interest-bearing account. This would be followed by annualizing my spending in order to get a clearer picture of my goals and intended spending.

Business or employment: Building a business is not the same as having a job. Whereas a job will give you a pay cheque every month end, a business may take months or even years before it take satisfactorily pay you your worth.

Before you choose either of the other, ask yourself how far you are willing to go in each pursuit. Go for a business if you are so passionate that you are willing to sacrifice time, money, and effort with the risk that you may never be successful or profit from it.

If not, stay on your job, serve your employer and his customers really well and money will also follow.

The side hustle: Running your own side business could be a great source of extra cash. It may also give you a little bit of wiggle room to do what you really want. But similarly, it might not be a very wise move if your current position is already incredibly demanding, or if it stretches you to the brink.

This feature was first published in the Saturday Magazine. Saturday Magazine is a publication of the Nation Media Group.

Evelyn Shuku: How I partnered with my hubby to own a house, build wealth first appeared on Bizna Kenya

Peter Mwangi, a resident of Naromoru in Nyeri County, is a proud farmer after having ventured into the cheapest-to-manage yet profitable flower business.

The Egerton University agriculture graduate grows Ammi variety of flowers on a half an acre farm, a venture he started in 2019 inspired by a friend.

“I wanted some extra cash and show my younger folks in the village that they can grow flowers profitably instead of over-relying on employment from local flower farms,” he said.

According to Mwangi, who teaches agriculture and biology, the Ammi flower varieties are easy to manage as they require minimal concerns about pests and diseases.

He sells the produce to an export firm in Thika at Sh4 per stem. However, there are also brokers who buy it for as low as Sh2 per stem.

 “I sell Ammi white to brokers at varied prices, which can be as low as Sh2 or as high as Sh10 per stem, depending on the market forces of demand and supply,” he said.

Mwangi reveals that the amount that a farmer can earn per acre depends on the price per stem. For instance, he says, if a stem is sold at Sh3, one can make around Sh150,000 in five months, and if a stem is sold at Sh9, then a farmer can earn up to Sh450,000.

Oscar Kasirimo: I lost hope in employment after graduating, now I make money from farming

The Ammi flower is mainly used to blend other flowers because of its distinct white and green colors, which make a bouquet look beautiful. The flowers are odorless and are sold in grades. Grade A goes for Sh4 per stem, Grade B Sh3, and Grade C Sh2.

Experts say to get big stems, one should not plant during the rainy season. The more sunshine they get, the bigger they bloom.

The flowers perform well in an open field without a greenhouse. Additionally, they can tolerate different soil conditions but do well on moist soil with good drainage.

According to Bernard Lang’at, an agronomist, farmers should target to harvest between October and June, which is high season, to maximize returns.

Once planted, the seeds germinate in seven days, and the flowers are usually ready for harvesting after three months.

Nelson Maina, a researcher at Kenya Agriculture Research Institute (KARI), says one acre of Ammi flowers can give a farmer an average of 280,000 to 320,000 stems.

Peter Mwangi: This is where you can easily make a six- figure income in 3 months first appeared on Bizna Kenya

Data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics has revealed an alarming trend in Kenya’s population workforce.

New graduates are entering the job market yearly, only to find a congested labour force that’s not willing to absorb them.

77% of youths aged 20 to 29 remain unemployed for more than a year. Job scarcity is itself a slow and choking pandemic whose effects are felt in the lives of the youth. What alternatives are there?

One might argue that they should continue to tarmac until luck shines a way for them. But is it sustainable for the unemployed 3.2 million Kenyans?

Oscar Kasirimo graduated from the Multimedia University with a Bachelor’s degree in Applied Communication. He is among the millions who failed to secure sustainable jobs after school.

As usual, with a believing spirit, Oscar tarmacked for a while, following every single lead at his disposal. It was a futile endeavour. He decided to return home to try his luck in farming.

“I had been applying for jobs but unfortunately there were no jobs and so I sat down with my dad and we decided to do farming because we had the resources,” said Oscar.

This is how Oscar settled on farming at his father’s land in Kajiado. Oscar has planted cabbages, onions and a few maize & tomatoes.

His primary focus is mostly on the Copenhagen cabbages because they do well in arid and semi-arid areas. The crop has a rather ‘quick return’ as it takes 3 months to mature.

“We like it because it’s prone to this kind of weather and they don’t get affected by diseases or pests easily and they mature very fast,” he noted.

The farmer also receives support from the Kajiado County government, in terms of subsidies for pesticides and fertilizers.

“We normally get an expert from the county government who assist us with planting and procedure for applying fertilizer,” Oscar added.

“We do weeding after every two weeks, there’s a lot of weed in this farm because we use a lot of natural manure. We get manure from home because we have a lot of cattle and sheep.”

Kasirimo sources his water from a borehole that is specifically drilled for farming purposes. He stated that they are contemplating transitioning to solar energy to pump water to the farm.

“We are hoping to install solar panels soon because electricity is really expensive. We hope solar will help us cut the cost,” he said.

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The pricing of the cabbage depends entirely on size. Bigger cabbages cost more than smaller ones.

“When we started, we were selling locally before we expanded to towns. When we increased production, we started selling at Kitengela and Athi River markets.”

While farming seems like a lucrative option for youth who are struggling to get employment, it also has its own challenges.

For Oscar Kasirimo, the heaviest burden he shoulders is the pest infestation which is encouraged by the area being semi-arid.

“Pests thrive in this kind of weather, they really affect us. Wild animals like the rabbits are also a menace in this area,” he said.

Oscar Kasirimo: I lost hope in employment after graduating, now I make money from farming first appeared on Bizna Kenya

Beatrice Kirui’s farm in Kiamunyi, Nakuru, hosts 3,000 chickens, 30 rabbits, three cows and two goats. To begin with, the chicken pen built from iron sheets and wood is one-storey, with each unit holding 1,500 chickens.

From this simple structure, she collects between 70 and 80 trays of eggs every day, which she sells at Sh310 each, most of them to wholesalers, hoteliers and bakeries around Nakuru.

Similarly, the rabbit pen is one-storey, though of smaller size, with each unit hosting 15 rabbits. In addition, the compound has space for a servant’s quarter, a brooding house and a kitchen that serves the farm workers.

Kirui works with a seed company in Uasin Gishu and only visits her farm at the weekend.

She has employed four workers, two to take care of the poultry, another the dairy cows, rabbits and goats while the other works as the general manager, overseeing the running of the farm, including monitoring the sales.

I earn Sh. 60,000 from my IT job and Sh. 150,000 from chicken farming

“I know what my chickens and cows produce weekly, thus, I am able to estimate my earnings. I keep track of everything that happens on the farm through the phone,” she says, adding that for a farmer in her situation, it is also important to trust her employees.

Her passion for farming started three years ago when she joined a women’s merry-go-round group in Kiamunyi estate located along the Nakuru-Kabarak Road.

From the Sh30,000 she was given by members, she started the poultry business and, thereafter, bought cows. “I put up a structure and bought 100 chicks. It is from this group that my brood has expanded to 3,000,” she says.

“My friends, some who also have quarter acres, thought that the land was too small for one to engage in any meaningful agribusiness, but I have proved that you can do as many farming projects as possible on such a farm.”

The land earns her over Sh650,000 a month, with most of the money coming from her layers. She spends about Sh60,000 on salaries a month while chicken feeds costs her Sh100,000.

Everything on her farm brings in cash, including chicken waste, which she sells as manure at Sh700 for a 90kg bag, besides using it to grow crops.

The three cows, two Friesian and one Ayrshire, produce 50 litres of milk daily that she sells at Sh35 a litre. The cows have also saved her at least Sh6,000 a month, which she would be using on fuel as she generates biogas for cooking and lighting her home.

“My son asked me to keep the rabbits for him because his friends were doing the same.” She sells the rabbits for Sh500 to Sh700 each depending on the size. Many of those who buy are fellow farmers. One of her dairy goats will soon have a kid and start producing milk, which will earn her more money.

Five members of her chama have since followed in her footsteps and are keeping between 100 and 500 layers on their quarter acres with plans to diversify.

Egerton University lecturer Prof Paul Kimurto describes the farm as a “demonstration of how Kenyans should effectively utilise their small pieces of land to earn a decent a living”.

“Many people believe farming requires a huge land. On a quarter-acre, you can do a lot and earn as much as someone who has five acres,”’ says Prof Kimurto, a crop and soil scientist at Egerton University.

Prof Kimurto notes that integrated farming is the way to go as land becomes scarce due to rapid population growth.

He challenges anyone who owns a plot in an urban area to see it as a farm, rather than just a residential place, and focus on how to make money.

Kirui has no agricultural background save for the fact that she works for a seed company as a sales manager. But as you watch her test if her chicken would lay eggs, one would mistake her for a livestock expert.

“If I put three fingers in the hen’s cervix and they fit, then it means that the bird will finally lay eggs. I have to do this to determine how many of my chicken would lay eggs.”

She says she loves learning on the job, which is why she preferred starting on the common cow breed rather than the hybrids.

“It makes no sense to invest so much while you have little experience. Experience is surely the best teacher.” One of her major challenge is high cost of chickens and dairy feeds.

“Some of the feeds are also of poor quality, I recently bought chicken feeds from a supplier and my birds produced eggs with weak shells and white yolk. I suffered losses.”

She advises poultry farmers to vaccine their chicken as recommended and watch out for diseases such as fowl pox. Most Profitable Farming in Kenya.

This is how I make Sh. 650,000 per month from farming first appeared on Bizna Kenya

James Ndung’u, a dairy farmer and the founder of Pokea  Dairy Farm in Njoro Nakuru County, now says the secret to reaping big in dairy farming is by rearing the right breed.

Ndung’u is not only a breeder but also a leading milk producer in the region. His 17-acre farm hosts 60 black and white Holstein Friesian cows, out of which 30 are pedigree.

He gets an average of 400 litres per day from his 10 lactating cows. Each cow produces 40 litres per day, but there is one that produces up to 55 litres.

”This is the magic cow. It gives me the most. I have never treated it against any disease apart from now when I am closely monitoring mastitis as it is getting old… If you want to reap big in dairy farming, invest in your breeds because what you put in is what you get,’’ he said.

Ndung’u adds that the use of high-quality semen is key as you are assured of a top breed with minimal disease concerns. He recounts buying semen from the US at Sh7,000 instead of cheap local semen of Sh500, a move he says was fruitful.

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“I import Friesian Holstein sexed semen from Germany to serve my cows, which guarantees me the calves born are all female,” says Ndung’u.

He feeds his animals on Napier grass, Rhodes grass, Lucerne, and sorghum silage, which is nutritious and rich in energy and protein. The animals are fed thrice a day at 9 am, 1 pm, and 5 pm.

“I mix a tonne of silage with 20kg of dried pyrethrum to curb aflatoxin. You have to feed a cow according to its weight. We feed a cow that weighs 650kg with 30kg silage and 20kg roughage twice a day. If a dairy farmer strictly adheres to such a feeding program, which includes concentrates, the animals will remain healthy and produce more milk.” He said.

Unlike many farmers, he does not bury his silage in the ground. He harvests his fodder at dough stage and covers it in a canvas, and then puts soil on top, avoiding excess moisture.

Besides milk, which he supplies to Brookside and Njoro Farmers Cooperative Society, the farmer also sells heifers and semen to other farmers.

Heifers go for between Sh150,000 and Sh250,000, while pedigree cows go for between Sh300,000 and Sh600,000. He also sells semen to farmers at between Sh500 and Sh9,600 and charges between Sh300 and Sh500 to train farmers.

James Ndung’u: Invest in Your Breed If You Want to Reap Big from Dairy Farming first appeared on Bizna Kenya

Why do you want to invest your money in MMFs? Is it because everyone else seems to be doing it? What returns do you expect? Well, Rhina Namsia, the founder and chief executive officer of The Acemt Consulting, a training and consultation company that provides financial planning and investment advisory, delves into the current wave of Money Market Funds and how this wave can either build your money or drown your financially:

It’s a typical Kenyan behavior that we all rush into something like a tsunami. One of these scenarios is the ongoing Money Market Funds (MMFs) wave. Everyone is now somehow aware of it and there’s no better feeling for us on the financial literacy space than that.

The only downside is that most people want to get into it just because it’s the trending financial vehicle at the moment – especially given that banks are also moving into that space, and not because they know if MMFs will and should work for them or not.

The Sacco wave happened and many were found swimming naked when the tides disappeared. The stock market happens when there’s a bull run and obviously if you enter that market blindly at such a time, you’ll also be found swimming naked when the bear run kicks off.

By swimming naked, I mean investing without proper knowledge of how an asset class works. Knowing how an asset is structured is a good way to start knowing how it will behave in different markets and whether it will even serve you.

Now back to money markets; An MMF is not a quick money-making entity. Neither does it need to be compared to putting your money into a business. It is a class of its own.

Many who are complaining about it, went in with say Sh. 1 million with an expectation that their money would double up or something. But that 13 per cent you’re seeing my friend, is not a Simple interest. It is an annual compound interest; meaning both your capital and interest earns a daily interest and continues earning interest on a daily basis.

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Compound interest is said to be like an 8th wonder of the world. In short, your capital can surprise you if you can be patient with it over time because of the structure of interest earning interest. But if you expect it to do miracles instantly you’ll also be surprised too and will soon start whining!

So what is the strategy?

Start early with MMFs: This means you’ll be saving a lower regular contribution rate towards a goal you may have, compared to someone who wants to achieve a similar goal but starts later in life.

Have time in the market: Try out a Compound interest calculation of Sh. 1 million over 5 years and compare that with simple interest of the same rate and see the wonder of compound interest rating.

Idle cash: Put in money that is idle or awaiting some other big investment. This is to avoid inflation, fees and any other costs involved in storing money that lead to lost value.

Don’t be greedy: Before you invest your money in MMFs, Choose a fund that works for you and not just the returns then contribute to it regularly.

Know Money Markets: Understand how money markets work first before putting your money in. There are so many Financial Literacy Classes currently and MMF is just one of the units offered by most. Invest in yourself as well by investing in financial literacy classes.

Namsia: You’ll be disappointed if you invest your money in MMFs blindly first appeared on Bizna Kenya

161 students who were schooling in Kenya’s national schools scored a the lowest mean grade E. The results produced by the students has left many puzzled as to how they could have managed to score the lowest grade in national schools that are known to only admit academically gifted students.

Over the years, national schools in Kenya have been admitting students with KCPE scores of 400 and above, and in rare cases lows of just between 380 and 400 marks. However, in the 2024 KCSE examinations, national schools in the country managed to produce tens of mean grade E.

This was an escalation from previous years where this grade has been recorded in national schools. According to a report that appeared in the Sunday Standard, 338 students had taken home grade Es in the 2019 KCSE examinations.

In the 2020 exams, 141 candidates scored an E. The lowest scores of this grade were recorded in the 2023 examinations in which only two mean grade E scores were recorded.

This report has further revealed that the number of students admitted at national schools who are failing to qualify for direct entry into universities has remained puzzlingly high.

For instance, in the 2024 examinations, 6,910 students in national schools did not get the required mean grade of C+ to qualify for direct entry to university. In 2023, this number had stood at 5,283.

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In the 2020 academic season, this number had stood at 6,118 while in 2019, 9,241 students from national schools did not make the cut off mark.

Overall, in 2023, a total of 48,174 candidates scored a mean of grade E. A total of 19,960 females scored grade E while 28,214 were males. In the 2022 results, the number of candidates with a mean grade of E declined to 30,822, compared to 46,151 who got E in the previous 2021 year.

In the 2024 results, 48,000 students scored the lowest mean grade of E while 434,333 scored Ds.

Puzzle of 161 students in national schools who scored mean grade E first appeared on Bizna Kenya

For business owners and individuals, January can often present financial challenges after the festive season.

Restocking your business, paying school fees, or managing daily expenses can strain your budget. But what if you could confidently navigate “Njaanuary ”and seize opportunities without financial worries?

Timiza is here to help you overcome your financial worries. With Timiza, you can conveniently access instant cash of up to Sh150,000 to settle your pending bills, including paying school fees, shopping, or restocking your business.

The platform is flexible, and depending on the amount borrowed, borrowers can repay their loan in 30 days, 3 months, 6 months, 9 months, or even 12 months.

Anyone can access the loans provided they have a mobile phone, either through the Timiza mobile app available on Google Play store or IOS app store or through the USSD *848#.

The more one transacts the more they grow and improve their Timiza credit limit. In addition, one gets discounts and loan limit growth on early repayment.

How to access Timiza loans on your phone:

Requirements:

To qualify for a Timiza loan, you must meet the following criteria:

• Be a registered Safaricom subscriber
• Be a registered Safaricom M-PESA customer
• Have an active Safaricom M-PESA account
• Have a Kenyan National Identification Document (ID)
• Have been an M-PESA subscriber for more than 6 months
• Actively use other Safaricom services like voice, data, and M-PESA
• Have a good rating at the Credit Reference Bureau (CRB) and by Safaricom on Okoa Jahazi

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How to apply for a Timiza loan

To open a Timiza account, you need to first register on Timiza for a transactional account. For your first-time loan application, follow the following steps.

1. Launch the app on your phone.
2. Enter your PIN to log in.
3. Your loan limit will be shown on the home screen
4. Click My loans.
5. Select Request loan.
6. Enter the amount of money you want to borrow.
7. Click continue.
8. Timiza will confirm whether or not the loan application was successful
9. Wait for a message confirming you have qualified for the loan.

Application for a Timiza loan using USSD service

1. Dial *848# on your mobile phone. Make sure you have registered for a Timiza account.
2. Enter your Timiza PIN.
3. Select option 4: Loan
4. Select option 1: request loan.
5. Select option 1: Get Cash.
6. Enter the amount of money you want to borrow
7. Confirm the amount you have applied for
8. Timiza will send a confirmation SMS.

Why Timiza loans are the best

1. Low Cost Short-term Loan

Compared to mainstream digital loan options like M-Shwari, KCB M-Pesa, and M-Coop Cash, Timiza is slightly more affordable. It also beats other digital loan apps like Tala, Zenka, and Branch Microfinance, which are known for their exorbitant rates.

2. High Loan Amounts

Among all the digital loans reviewed by the Bizna Team, Timiza stands out for offering high loan amounts of up to Sh. 150,000.

Such generous loans are usually available only to individuals with traditional bank accounts, but Timiza breaks this mold.

Furthermore, the average maximum loan limit most digital apps are willing to finance is around between Sh. 30,000 and Sh. 50,000.

3. Tested, Approved and Trusted

As many are aware, the digital loans market has for long been plagued with accusations of predatory lending, unethical collection practices and high interest rates.

Borrowers will find comfort in knowing that the Timiza Digital Loan is a product of a licenced and regulated commercial bank. Customers wary of debt shaming practices and data misuse by a rogue selection of lenders can find peace with this app.

4. Quick loan disbursement

The Timiza App offers nearly instant disbursement of the loan amount provided one meets the eligibility requirements.

How to get Sh150,000 urgently this Njaanuary first appeared on Bizna Kenya

A somber mood engulfed Ongata Rongai, in Kajiado County after the badly mutilated body of 29-year-old Lydia Tokesi was found in a thicket.

Tokesi, a Moi University graduate, reportedly went missing 9 days ago. Her mutilated body, which had serious signs of torture, was retrieved at Gataka Forest, with some parts missing.

Her family members, who positively identified the body revealed Tokesi was last seen alive on January 4, in the company of his 8-year lover with whom they had a troubled relationship.

The family claimed the suspected killer boyfriend identified as Joseph Philip Orwa, had invited the deceased to his place in Ongata Rongai where the two stayed until the 4th of January, when Lydia was reported missing.

“We are waiting for the DNA process to help identify the body, the suspect Joseph Orwa was with Lydia last, we are seeking him to come forward,” Daniel Shikoli, Lydia’s brother, said.

The family further revealed their kin had taken a bank loan and purchased a motor vehicle for the boyfriend who operated it as a taxi in Nairobi.

Puzzle of 161 students in national schools who scored mean grade E

However, after the heinous act, the  said vehicle was found abandoned near the deceased parents’ home with bloodstains raising questions over what might have transpired.

Police investigation at the suspect’s house led to the recovery of crucial items linked to Tokesi’s murder, among them SIM cards, alcohol, and the deceased clothes.

There was also a love letter that revealed the two had a struggling relationship. Police are looking forward to grilling several people considered to be persons of interest as they critically analyse CCTV footage in the locality.

The family is now calling on the investigative agencies to hasten their probe and arrest the prime suspect.

“We are waiting for the DCI to come out to expedite the process, to let us know, what really happened,” the family appealed.

Woman who took loan to buy boyfriend a car found murdered, car abandoned first appeared on Bizna Kenya

The Future of Jobs Report 2025 by the World Economic Forum (WEF) provides a detailed analysis of the evolving global employment landscape, focusing on how technology, economic shifts, and societal changes are shaping the job market. It offers critical insights into job growth, declining roles, and the skills required to thrive in the future economy. Here’s a 500-word summary:

Emerging Job Market Trends

The global workforce is undergoing significant changes, with certain sectors projected to grow rapidly while others face decline. According to the report, frontline occupations like farmworkers, delivery drivers, and healthcare support roles are expected to lead job creation by 2030. These jobs are driven by increasing demand for essential services and localized production.

Conversely, advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) and automation are expected to reduce the need for roles such as typists, word processors, and traditional administrative positions. Routine-based jobs that rely heavily on manual or repetitive tasks are at higher risk of displacement due to the integration of AI technologies.

The Role of AI and Technology

AI continues to transform industries, acting as a double-edged sword for the workforce. On one hand, it enhances productivity and creates new hybrid roles that require human-AI collaboration. On the other hand, it poses challenges, such as potential job displacement and increased inequality. High-wage, highly skilled roles are expected to benefit more from AI integration, while low-wage workers may experience limited advantages.

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For instance, while AI accelerates the growth of industries like software development and data analysis, it also raises concerns about unequal economic benefits. Workers without access to advanced education or skills training may find themselves left behind, exacerbating socio-economic disparities.

Upskilling and Workforce Transformation

The report emphasizes the urgent need for upskilling and reskilling programs. Employers and policymakers are encouraged to invest in targeted training initiatives to equip workers with the necessary skills to thrive in an AI-dominated economy. Key areas of focus include digital literacy, critical thinking, and advanced technical skills related to AI and automation.

To combat labor shortages, organizations are advised to tap into underutilized talent pools, such as veterans, individuals with disabilities, and older workers. By fostering inclusivity, businesses can address workforce gaps while enhancing innovation and productivity.

Economic and Policy Considerations

The report highlights that job creation remains concentrated in non-cyclical sectors, such as healthcare, education, and government. These industries are resilient to economic fluctuations and are expected to provide stable employment opportunities in the coming years. However, this stability hinges on governments implementing proactive policies to mitigate the disruptions caused by technological advancements.

Policies aimed at supporting displaced workers, reducing inequality, and fostering mental well-being are critical to ensuring a smooth transition. The concept of “mental wealth” is introduced, advocating for strategies that prioritize workers’ mental health and adaptability in the face of rapid change.

Conclusion

The Future of Jobs Report underscores the importance of proactive strategies to prepare for a rapidly changing job market. By focusing on upskilling, inclusivity, and policy reforms, stakeholders can navigate the challenges posed by AI and automation while unlocking opportunities for sustainable growth. As technology continues to reshape the employment landscape, collaboration between governments, businesses, and workers will be crucial in creating a resilient and equitable future workforce.

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The Future of Jobs Report 2025 highlights several roles expected to decline significantly by 2030 due to advancements in automation, artificial intelligence (AI), and shifting industry demands. The most affected jobs are those that involve repetitive, routine-based tasks or can be easily automated. Key jobs forecasted to decline include:

1. Data Entry Clerks

• Reason for Decline: Automated data processing and AI-driven tools have significantly reduced the need for manual data entry.

• Impact: Many organizations are leveraging AI systems for faster and error-free data management.

2. Administrative and Executive Secretaries

• Reason for Decline: Automation of scheduling, communication, and document management reduces the demand for traditional administrative support roles.

• Impact: Digital assistants and AI platforms like chatbots are replacing routine secretarial tasks.

3. Typists and Word Processors

• Reason for Decline: The shift to advanced document creation software and voice-to-text technologies has rendered manual word processing obsolete.

• Impact: Fewer opportunities in clerical roles across industries.

The Future of Jobs Report 2025: what to expect and how to prepare

4. Bank Tellers and Related Clerks

• Reason for Decline: The rise of online banking, mobile apps, and automated teller machines (ATMs) reduces the need for in-branch banking staff.

• Impact: Banking is becoming increasingly digital, minimizing human involvement in routine transactions.

5. Postal Service Clerks

• Reason for Decline: Digital communication and e-commerce automation have drastically reduced the volume of traditional mail processing.

• Impact: Mail sorting, customer service, and postal delivery roles are shrinking.

6. Cashiers and Retail Workers

• Reason for Decline: Self-checkout systems, mobile payment apps, and cashier-less stores (like Amazon Go) are replacing traditional cashier roles.

• Impact: Retail jobs are shifting toward customer engagement and inventory management.

7. Assembly and Factory Workers

• Reason for Decline: Robotics and advanced manufacturing technologies are automating repetitive tasks in assembly lines.

• Impact: Low-skill manufacturing jobs are particularly vulnerable to automation.

8. Accounting and Bookkeeping Clerks

• Reason for Decline: AI-powered accounting software and tools can handle bookkeeping, tax preparation, and financial analysis with high efficiency.

• Impact: Routine accounting tasks are increasingly automated, reducing entry-level roles.

9. Travel Agents

• Reason for Decline: The rise of online booking platforms and AI travel assistants has diminished the need for traditional travel planning services.

• Impact: Only niche travel agents focused on luxury or specialized trips remain in demand.

10. Telemarketers

• Reason for Decline: Automated marketing tools, email campaigns, and AI-driven customer outreach are replacing cold-call-based marketing.

• Impact: Companies are investing in digital marketing rather than human telemarketing efforts.

Conclusion

The decline of these jobs reflects broader trends toward automation and digital transformation. Workers in these roles are encouraged to pursue upskilling opportunities in areas like digital literacy, critical thinking, and AI collaboration to stay relevant in the evolving job market.

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The Future of Jobs Report 2025 highlights roles expected to grow significantly by 2030, driven by advancements in technology, the green transition, and shifts in consumer and business needs. These roles focus on innovation, digital transformation, and sustainability. Below are key job categories forecasted to experience significant growth:

1. AI and Machine Learning Specialists

• Reason for Growth: The rise of AI technologies across industries is driving demand for experts who can develop, deploy, and manage AI systems.

• Key Skills Needed: Machine learning algorithms, Python, data modeling, and deep learning.

2. Data Analysts and Scientists

• Reason for Growth: The increasing importance of data-driven decision-making requires skilled professionals to collect, analyze, and interpret complex datasets.

• Key Skills Needed: Data visualization, SQL, statistical analysis, and big data tools.

3. Software and Application Developers

• Reason for Growth: The ongoing digital transformation across industries necessitates the development of innovative applications, platforms, and software solutions.

• Key Skills Needed: Programming (Java, Python, C++), app development, and UX/UI design.

4. Cybersecurity Specialists

• Reason for Growth: The growing frequency of cyberattacks and the need for robust digital infrastructure make cybersecurity a top priority for organizations.

• Key Skills Needed: Network security, ethical hacking, and incident response.

The Future of Jobs Report 2025: roles expected to decline by 2030

5. Renewable Energy Specialists

• Reason for Growth: The global transition to clean energy is creating demand for roles related to solar, wind, and other renewable energy technologies.

• Key Skills Needed: Renewable energy systems, sustainability expertise, and energy storage solutions.

6. Healthcare Professionals and Technicians

• Reason for Growth: Aging populations and advancements in healthcare technology are driving demand for skilled healthcare workers, including telemedicine specialists.

• Key Skills Needed: Patient care, medical technology proficiency, and health data analysis.

7. Digital Marketing and E-Commerce Specialists

• Reason for Growth: The expansion of online businesses and the digital economy has increased demand for experts in digital advertising, content creation, and SEO.

• Key Skills Needed: Social media marketing, data analytics, and digital strategy.

8. Environmental and Sustainability Specialists

• Reason for Growth: Increased global focus on sustainability and regulatory compliance is fueling demand for experts in green initiatives and environmental management.

• Key Skills Needed: Environmental science, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) frameworks, and regulatory knowledge.

9. Robotics Engineers

• Reason for Growth: Robotics is increasingly used in manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics, requiring engineers to design and maintain these systems.

• Key Skills Needed: Robotics programming, mechanical engineering, and automation systems.

10. Education and Training Specialists

• Reason for Growth: The demand for workforce upskilling and lifelong learning programs requires professionals who can design and deliver innovative training solutions.

• Key Skills Needed: Curriculum development, digital tools for education, and facilitation skills.

Conclusion

These roles reflect the growing importance of technology, sustainability, and human-centric skills in the evolving job market. Workers are encouraged to pursue targeted training and certifications to prepare for these high-demand opportunities.

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Governor Sakaja’s administration recently announced that vehicles would be allowed to park in Nairobi at no charge on Saturdays and Sundays. Previously, the waiver only applied on Sundays.

The new policy has been well received by citizens and businesses within the CBD. The clarification indicates that parking fees will only apply from Monday to Friday.

“Yes, parking is free on Saturdays. You can come to town, park your car, and not pay anything. Previously, only Sundays were free, but we’ve adjusted this to include Saturdays,” Sakaja stated.

Sakaja noted that this was part of his administration’s effort to ease Kenyans’ financial burden while ensuring maximised revenue collection.

“This ensures we maximize revenue collection during weekdays while giving Nairobians the chance to enjoy free parking over the weekend.”

The move is a win for many, including small business owners running enterprises in the CBD and parking attendants in the city. One such entrepreneur is James Ngunjiri whose business is located at Pioneer House.

“Every Saturday, I save at least Sh. 400 since Sakaja took over. That’s Sh. 1,600 a month, which I can now reinvest in my business. It’s a great move for those of us who rely on private vehicles to operate,” he said.

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On the other hand, Bonnie, a parking attendant along Kenyatta Avenue stated that they receive more tips on weekends than during the weekdays when motorists incur parking fees.

“Car owners usually give us Sh. 50 or even Sh. 100 to watch their cars since they don’t pay the county. I make more money now,” Bonnie noted.

The Nairobi administration has also effected other beneficial policies such as allowing city content creators to shoot videos and take photos during weekends free of charge.

Furthermore, a notice was issued to CBD hawkers detailing specific lanes and roads where they could conduct their businesses. Hawking will only be permitted from Mondays to Saturday from 4pm to 10pm.

Some of the main streets where hawking has been prohibited include Moi Avenue, Haile Selassie Avenue, Kenneth Matiba Road, Latema Road, Ronald Ngala Street, Mfangano Street, Hakati Road and River Road.

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The Higher Education Loans Board (HELB) has announced that its portal for the Kenya Accountants and Secretaries National Examinations Board (KASNEB) is open for students to access tuition and exam financing.

In a statement on Monday, January 13, HELB said that the KASNEB Foundation Loan and Bursary Scheme is only open to students taking KASNEB accounting courses.

“The KASNEB Foundation Loan and Bursary Scheme is now open, offering support for both your tuition and exam fees. With attractive interest rates and flexible repayment periods,” HELB stated.

The loan will attract an interest rate of 6% per annum and is due for repayment 3 years after the date of completion of studies.

The maximum loan repayment period is 60 months, with the option of choosing a lower repayment period. HELB noted there will also be an administrative fee of Kshs.500 charged during disbursement.

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KASNEB Loan qualifications

According to HELB, to qualify for the loan, a student must be enrolled in a KASNEB-accredited institution.

In addition, students seeking financing must be taking the following courses; Certified Public Accountants (CPA), Certified Secretaries (CS), Certified Investment and Financial Analysts (CIFA).

Others are Certified Credit Professionals (CCP), Accounting Technicians Diploma (ATD), and Certificate in Accounting and Management Skills (CAMS).

How to Apply

• Applicants should visit the HELB website www.helb.co.ke to access the HELB Students’ Portal to register, create, and activate the account (ensure you use your personal mobile number).
• Log in, and click Loan ‘Application’ Tab, on the left dashboard.
• From the view window, select either: KASNEB Foundation Loan and Bursary Application- Tuition fees only OR KASNEB Foundation Loan and Bursary Application – kasneb fees only.
• Read and agree on the Consent for the Collection and Processing of Personal Data.
• Access and fill out the loan application form online.

HELB announces loans and bursaries for select students; How to apply first appeared on Bizna Kenya

When Paul Muarage earned his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from the United States International University (USIU-Africa), he joined his family’s construction business.

However, down the line, an untapped passion in aquaculture would soon lead him to a different direction which saw him establish his own fish farming enterprise in Kilifi County. Paul Murage is the owner of Pwani Fish Farm and Hatchery.

His life took a turn to aquaculture in 2013 when Murage was involved in a road car accident. From the ordeal, Murage received a settlement of Sh. 300,000 which he pumped in as the seed capital for the fish farm.

“My dad had constructed one pond and stocked it, but all the fish died. It became a challenge for us to solve. Although I had a passion for rearing fish, I didn’t have the capital until I was involved in the accident,” Murage recalled.

Before getting deeply involved in the enterprise, he visited the Kenya Marine Fisheries and Research Institute to gain knowledge. He also sought the counsel of fish farmers in Mtwapa.

Armed with enough information, he bought 500 tilapia fingerlings and some goldfish fingerlings which he put in a concrete pond.

More than a decade later since the business began, he now rears tilapia, catfish fingerlings and some ornamental fish such as goldfish, black mollies and koi carps.

Pwani Fish Farm & Hatchery has a monthly production capacity of between 150,000 to 200,000 fingerlings. In the near future, Murage is targeting 600,000 fingerlings monthly.

“We are looking for partners who we will collaborate with to ensure that this dream comes true. Once we find them, we will be good to go,” he said.

Currently, the farm has a mix of 5 liner ponds, many concrete ponds, 5 tilapia breeding tanks and 30 smaller tanks. The original batch of fingerlings at the aquaculture farm were sourced from Sagana. Paul Murage also imported male-only tilapia from Til-Aqua in the Netherlands.

Sustainability is central to Murage’s fish-feeding practices. They use Unga Feeds and other commercial feeds from Nairobi. The diet is supplemented by Black Soldier Flies (BSF) which are reared at the farm.

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“We aim to cut our feed cost by about 50% through using soldier flies. We started BSF farming three years ago. We spent Sh. 10,000 to buy the first colony. We feed them fruit waste and wheat bran, among other feeds,” he continued.

He noted that fish farming is an intensive operation that requires adequate care. Some of the best practices include checking the water levels in the pond daily, monitoring temperatures and oxygen levels, cleaning the pond and feeding the fingerlings thrice a day.

There is also concern about fish predators but Murage has taken active measures to counteract them.

Pwani Fish Farm sells fingerlings to farmers and farmers’ groups. They are currently exploring opportunities in the ornamental fish market.

“We sell the tilapia fingerlings for Sh. 10 each and catfish fingerlings for Sh. 15 each. In terms of ornamentals, we sell the common goldfish for Sh. 150 per inch and the koi carp for between Sh. 350 and Sh. 400 per piece,” he noted.

He advised aspiring fish farmers to keep their eyes peeled for opportunities while exercising resilience and patience. Murage explained that returns are not straightforward but with time, the money comes.

“Actually, aquaculture is about the water quality. So if you don’t use quality cold water, you will lose fish. If the water is not clean and there is a bit of mismanagement, you will have a big crisis,” he concluded

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Kenya Airways has donated a decommissioned Boeing 737 -700 Next
Generation (NG) aircraft to Mang’u High school to inspire the next generation of aviation professionals.

This initiative will provide students with valuable hands-on learning experiences, cultivating a deeper understanding of the aviation industry.

The Kenya Airways donation comes after a delegation from Mang’u High School inspected and formally accepted the decommissioned Boeing 737-700 NG aircraft in 2023. This initiative, the first of its kind in Africa, highlights Kenya Airways’ and Mang’u High School’s shared commitment to advancing STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) and aviation education for young minds.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony, Kenya Airways, Chief Strategy and Innovation Officer, Hellen Mathuka said, “This aircraft, which once soared through the skies connecting people and places, now begins a new chapter in its story. At Mang’u High School, it will become a unique classroom, a hands-on resource to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary for careers in aviation, engineering, and technology.”

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The Boeing 737-700 NG will enhance the school’s existing aviation program, which already features a caravan aircraft used for aviation classes. This new addition will provide hands-on learning opportunities, enabling students to gain practical insights into aviation systems and operations at the secondary school
level.

Anthony Maina Mithanga, Chairman of the Mang’u High School described the aircraft’s arrival as a gamechanger solidifying the school’s reputation as a hub for aviation studies. “The aircraft will serve as an educational tool to reinforce the principle, “What you can see, you can be” inspiring our students to dream big, innovate, and take the lead in the aviation industry and beyond,” he stated.

The project was made possible through a collaborative effort involving Kenya Airways, the KCB Foundation, Crown Paints, and technical teams from Kenya Airways and Bonafide Group. Once reassembled and installed on the school grounds, the aircraft will serve as an innovative educational tool allowing students to explore aviation systems, operations, and technology in a real-world context.

Beyond this initiative, Kenya Airways actively engages students from various institutions at their Embakasi hub, to witness firsthand the operations of a major airline, interact with pilots and engineers, gaining valuable industry exposure. This proactive approach, driven by the airlines commitment to inspire future aviators, aims to address the aviation industry’s growing need for skilled professionals, ultimately contributing to the growth of a thriving aviation sector in Africa.

So far, Kenya Airways has benefitted from hundreds of experts from Mang’u High School over the years.

There are currently over 40 pilots and over 20 aeronautical and aerospace engineers that are alumni of
the school.

Kenya Airways collaborates with Mang’u High School to inspire future aviators first appeared on Bizna Kenya

The Museum of Illusions (MOI), the world’s fastest-growing museum chain, is thrilled to announce its debut in Nairobi, Kenya, with an exclusive launch event on January 24, 2025.

The museum will officially open to the public on January 25, offering a mesmerizing new destination for both locals and visitors.

Located at Laxon Court Plaza, Parklands, Ground Floor, the Nairobi location joins MOI’s network of over 50 sites globally, including New York, Paris, Dubai, and Johannesburg. Known for its innovative and interactive exhibits, MOI blends education with entertainment, providing an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.

Over 60 Mind-Bending Exhibits

The Museum of Illusions Nairobi will feature over 60 captivating displays, including optical illusions, immersive rooms, holograms, and stereograms. Designed to challenge perception and stimulate curiosity, the museum invites visitors to embark on a journey that blurs the line between reality and illusion.

Tickets will soon be available on the official website: Museum of Illusion, Nairobi.

Opening Hours:

• Monday to Wednesday: 10:00 AM – 8:00 PM

• Thursday to Sunday: 10:00 AM – 9:00 PM

The Museum of Illusions arrives in Nairobi: A mind-bending experience awaits - Bizna Kenya

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A Unique Addition to Nairobi’s Landscape

“We are ecstatic to be bringing the Museum of Illusions to Nairobi, offering a new and unique experience to all consumers and providing a platform for edutainment,” said Brandy Achar, Museum Manager.

“We welcome everyone to immerse themselves in a world that will challenge their minds and provide a playground for their senses. We aim to inspire our visitors to see the world in new ways and foster learning and exploration.”

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Nairobi, renowned for its unique blend of urban and natural attractions, provides the perfect backdrop for MOI’s sensory-stimulating exhibits.

As the only city in the world with a national park, Nairobi’s dynamic cultural and natural landscape aligns seamlessly with MOI’s mission to amaze, educate, and inspire.

Celebrating Kenyan Creativity

To honour Kenya’s rich artistry and culture, MOI Nairobi has partnered with local creatives to produce bespoke exhibits:

• Moha, the Father of Matatu Culture, has designed the “Reversed Room,” inspired by Nairobi’s vibrant Matatu culture.

• Lulu Kitololo reimagines Kenyan traditions through a contemporary lens with an exhibit featuring modern interpretations of jewellery and fabrics.

• Brian Omolo contributes a mural celebrating Nairobi’s urban spirit and dynamic culture.

These collaborations showcase MOI’s commitment to supporting and celebrating Kenyan talent, creating a culturally resonant experience that pays homage to the city’s identity.

A Hub for Education, Tourism, and Growth

Beyond its exhibits, MOI Nairobi aims to be an educational and cultural hub, offering a platform for learning and critical thinking. The museum aligns with Kenya’s educational goals, providing students a space to explore and engage.

Additionally, MOI Nairobi is expected to bolster local tourism, stimulate economic growth, and create numerous job opportunities, making a meaningful contribution to Kenya’s social and economic development.

About the Museum of Illusions

Founded in 2015 in Zagreb, Croatia, the Museum of Illusions has grown into the world’s largest chain of privately held museums. Each location features a unique array of exhibits that merge science, art, and creativity, captivating more than 15 million visitors worldwide.

Prepare to step into a world where nothing is as it seems. Visit the Museum of Illusions Nairobi and experience the extraordinary.

Museum of Illusions arrives in Nairobi: Mind-bending experience awaits first appeared on Bizna Kenya

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Saving is a positive however, saving without a predefined target can feel daunting due to the lack of motivation to achieve a specific “goal” within a set me.

Goal-based saving aligns a purpose with a financial target, in this case, the funds required to fulfill a savings or investments objective. This approach not only provides direction but also encourages consistent saving habits, ultimately leading to the achievement of long-term financial goals.

Goal-based saving involves identifying a clear and distinct financial objective, factoring in all associated costs, and determining the timeframe required to achieve it. This process is followed by committing to periodic top-ups and mapping out a plan with the assistance of a Financial Advisor or a financial tool. Once these steps are complete, the journey begins, requiring discipline and patience to see it through.

If you are new to setting financial goals, start by listing all your objectives, including the smaller ones. Outline the total amounts required for each goal, prioritizing the essential ones based on what is important and urgent. When saving with a goal in mind, it’s crucial to distinguish between needs, wants and wishes, as this will help determine the timeframe needed to achieve them, whether short-term, medium-term, or long-term.

A common mistake people make is not choosing the right savings vehicles. The vehicle used for building an emergency fund or retirement savings may differ from the one used to save for an asset. It’s important to familiarize yourself with various savings solutions that align with your goals, understanding their level of risk and expected returns.

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Consulting a Financial Advisor can help identify the most suitable options. For instance, a Money Market Fund can be used to save for an asset or act as an emergency fund and one can have different Money Market Funds for different goals.

Lack of emergency preparedness or saving in a vehicle that allows easy access to funds can lead to withdrawing money prematurely or failing to meet monthly savings targets. This can be mitigated by developing a strategy that ensures consistent savings toward your goal within a specified timeframe.

Building an emergency fund is one of the best ways to stay prepared for unexpected life events like job loss or medical emergencies. An emergency fund prevents you from dipping into your savings or taking out a loan in times of need. Ideally, an emergency fund should cover six to twelve months of living expenses and should be kept in a safe, accessible place like a Money Market Fund.

There are simple personal finance rules to help you stay consistent. For example, prioritize saving by treating it as the first expense in your budget. Another effective hack is automating your periodic savings through standing orders, eliminating the mental hurdle of manually transferring money to a savings account each month.

To achieve your goals, remain realistic about your current financial situation, factoring in all your sources of income and expenses. Financial freedom requires deliberate planning. Asset Managers such as Jubilee Asset Management offer experienced Financial Advisors to guide you through your financial journey while providing tailored savings and investment solutions to help you achieve your savings and investments goals.

By Mercy Mwelu

Goal-Based saving: The path to financial independence first appeared on Bizna Kenya